Fine Gael councillor Michael Burke has welcomed the confirmation that negotiations are at an advanced stage for the introduction of a labour activation initiative known as Gateway, which is specifically designed to provide workplace opportunities for the long-term unemployed to undertake work in local authorities. Gateway is being developed jointly by the City and County Managers Association in conjunction with the Department Social Welfare, with assistance from the Department of Environment.
Cllr Burke was also able to confirm that Mayo County Council is one of the 13 local authorities chosen to introduce the scheme first between now and the end of the year. “I am delighted to announce that negotiations for the introduction of this initiative are at an advanced stage and we should have the first beneficiaries of this scheme in employment with the council in the coming months. I have specifically called for the introduction of government-led labour initiatives since my election and I am delighted that these calls have been taken on board by the relevant ministers. The type of work to be undertaken through Gateway will include removal of litter, cleaning up of flower beds, removal of graffiti and sign cleaning, painting and cleaning of derelict building and sites, etc. Our communities will benefit greatly from this initiative due to the increased manpower carrying out this sort of work” he stated.
The first jobs being provided by the initiative are expected to come on stream from September and it is expected that 750 positions will be available across the 13 local authorities over time.
